Xmas0ke will lighten mood for stressed students

By Katie Williams
Collegian Editor
December 6, 2006

Finals week is almost upon us, and the semester seems like it will be just as stressful as the last. Fortunately, The Masque is offering some relief and distraction from the long hours of studying in the form of a little holiday cheer. Saturday, Dec. 9, starting at 8 p.m. in Backstage, the Masque will be hosting Xmas0ke, a Christmas karaoke event. Spotlight caught up with Amy Nickerson, president of the Masque, to find out more.

Spotlight: How many years has the Masque held this event?

Amy Nickerson: This will be the 3rd year in a row.

SP: Will Santa be attending again this year?

AN: Both Santa Claus and the Mrs. will be there, along with their helpful band of elves.

SP: Just how helpful will these elves be?

AN: There’ll be elves orchestrating everything from snacks to karaoke.

SP: What should students expect when they attend?

AN: We transform Backstage to feel like its Christmas with lights and decorations - everyone has a good laugh singing everything from carols to Justin Timberlake. Students can also get their pictures taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus and make an ornament to give to their parents.

SP: Is there a fee to enter?

AN: No. However, we are asking anyone who comes out to bring at least some spare change to the event. We’ll be making a donation to UNICEF’s Holiday Drive - The Gift of Life. For instance, just $1.20 can immunize a woman and her newborn against tetanus, and $3 can buy one dose of antiretroviral drugs for an HIV-positive child in struggling countries. Every little bit helps, and when better to reach out than at Christmas?

curleys1@lasalle.edu